South of Broad: Charleston's Historic Gem

Discover the historic charm and architectural splendor of South of Broad, Charleston's most picturesque and culturally rich neighborhood.

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South of Broad

Nestled at the southern tip of the Charleston peninsula, South of Broad is a captivating neighborhood that exudes timeless charm and historical grandeur. This picturesque enclave, bounded by the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, offers a window into the past with its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and lush gardens. The neighborhood is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, with homes dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, showcasing a blend of Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival styles. The allure of South of Broad lies not only in its stunning architecture but also in its rich cultural tapestry. Strolling through the neighborhood, visitors can explore landmarks such as the Battery, a fortified seawall and promenade that offers breathtaking views of Charleston Harbor. Nearby, White Point Garden provides a serene spot to relax under ancient oak trees while soaking up the history brought to life by the numerous monuments and cannons on display. For history buffs, South of Broad is a must-visit destination. The neighborhood is home to several historic churches, including St. Michael's Episcopal Church, which dates back to 1761. Walking tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the stories and legends that are woven into the fabric of this enchanting area. Additionally, the neighborhood's proximity to Charleston's vibrant downtown means that fine dining, boutique shopping, and cultural experiences are just a short walk away.

Local tips in South of Broad

Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and to enjoy quieter streets.
Take a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history and hidden stories of the neighborhood.
Don't miss the Battery and White Point Garden for stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Check out local events and festivals that may be happening during your visit for an authentic Charleston experience.

File:Rainbow Row, Charleston SC 2016.07.14 (55).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Battery Park, Charleston SC 2016.07.14 (26).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:White Point Garden Charleston 2021.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Charleston Old Exchange Provost Dungeon - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:St. Michael's Episcopal Church, Charleston, South Carolina (1919).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Nathaniel Russell House (Front Façade).JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Market-hall-charleston-sc1.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Rainbow Row

Explore the iconic Rainbow Row in Charleston, SC, a colorful historic landmark perfect for photography and immersing in Southern charm.

Nathaniel Russell House

Discover the Nathaniel Russell House, a historical gem in Charleston, SC, showcasing stunning architecture and captivating stories from the past.

Simmons-Edwards House

Explore the historic Simmons-Edwards House in Charleston, a beautiful landmark that reflects the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

The Walled City of Charles Town

Discover the captivating history of Charleston at the Walled City of Charles Town, an archaeological gem showcasing the city's colonial past.

Robert Brewton House

Discover the elegant charm and rich history of the Robert Brewton House, a must-visit historical landmark in Charleston, South Carolina.

Edward Rutledge House

Discover the Edward Rutledge House, a historic landmark in Charleston, SC, where colonial history and stunning architecture come alive.

Colonel John Stuart House

Explore the Colonel John Stuart House, a historic landmark in Charleston, SC, embodying the city's rich heritage and stunning Southern architecture.

Constitutional Convention Of 1868 Historical Marker

Discover the essence of American history at the Constitutional Convention of 1868 Historical Marker in Charleston, SC, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Burial site of Charles C. Pinckney, Major General United States of America & signer of the United States Constitution

Explore the burial site of Major General Charles C. Pinckney, a Founding Father and signer of the U.S. Constitution, in picturesque Charleston, SC.

Charleston Sundial

Discover the historical allure of the Charleston Sundial, a serene landmark that reflects the beauty and charm of South Carolina's coastal city.

Unmissable attractions to see

Pineapple Fountain

Experience the enchanting Pineapple Fountain in Charleston, a symbol of hospitality surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for relaxation and stunning photos.

Burial site of Charles C. Pinckney, Major General United States of America & signer of the United States Constitution

Explore the historic burial site of Major General Charles C. Pinckney in Charleston, a key figure in U.S. history and signer of the Constitution.

Essential places to dine

Hyman's Seafood

Experience Charleston’s finest seafood at Hyman’s Seafood – where tradition meets taste in every bite.

Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar

Experience fresh seafood and breathtaking waterfront views at Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar in Charleston's historic French Quarter.

Poogan's Porch

Experience authentic Southern cuisine in a historic setting at Poogan's Porch in Charleston, SC – where every meal feels like home.

Toast! All Day

Experience Southern hospitality at Toast! All Day in Charleston - where breakfast meets brunch with a delightful twist.

Magnolias

Experience Southern sophistication at Magnolias – where classic American cuisine meets fine dining in the heart of Charleston.

Husk

Experience the essence of Southern cuisine at Husk in Charleston - where tradition meets innovation with every dish.

Slightly North of Broad Restaurant

Experience Charleston's vibrant culinary scene at Slightly North of Broad - where local ingredients meet Southern hospitality.

Iron Rose

Discover Iron Rose: where Southern tradition meets modern cuisine in the heart of Charleston.

FIG

Discover FIG: A premier fine dining restaurant in Charleston blending Southern flavors with American culinary artistry.

The Establishment

Discover Charleston's culinary delight at The Establishment - where fresh seafood meets Southern elegance in a vibrant atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Sheila's Shamrock

Explore Sheila's Shamrock in Charleston for unique gifts, souvenirs, and toys that capture the essence of your travel experience.

The Hidden Countship: Italian Boutique for Fine Living

Discover the elegance of Italian-inspired gifts, clothing, and jewelry at The Hidden Countship in Charleston, a must-visit boutique for discerning travelers.

Noddy Charleston

Explore Noddy Charleston for unique gifts and home goods that capture the essence of South Carolina's vibrant culture.

Best Gift Idea Ever

Explore a treasure trove of local art, unique gifts, and custom souvenirs in Charleston's vibrant French Quarter.

Boysterous Couture

Discover Charleston's premier clothing store, Boysterous Couture, where modern elegance meets timeless fashion in a chic shopping experience.

The Boutique Charleston

Discover unique gifts and charming decor at The Boutique Charleston, a delightful shop in the heart of Charleston's vibrant shopping district.

Needlepoint.Com Charleston

Explore the vibrant world of needlework at Needlepoint.Com Charleston, where creativity meets tradition in a charming shop filled with inspiration.

Mildred Newberry

Discover unique handcrafted gifts and fashion accessories at Mildred Newberry, a charming boutique in the heart of Charleston's South of Broad neighborhood.

Over The Moon

Discover unique fashion treasures at Over The Moon, a charming boutique in Charleston offering stylish clothing that embodies Southern charm.

Souchi

Explore Souchi, a boutique in Charleston offering unique, handcrafted apparel and accessories, perfect for a taste of Southern elegance.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Griffon

Experience the heart of Charleston at The Griffon, where American cuisine meets a vibrant pub atmosphere in the French Quarter.

Blind Tiger Pub

Experience the unique charm of Blind Tiger Pub, a historic bar in Charleston's French Quarter, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere.

Prohibition

Experience the spirit of Charleston at Prohibition, where expertly crafted cocktails meet live music in a vibrant atmosphere.

The Rooftop at the Vendue

Discover Charleston's panoramic views and delightful American cuisine at The Rooftop at the Vendue, a perfect blend of elegance and relaxation.

Henry's On The Market

Experience the lively spirit of Charleston at Henry's On The Market, where exquisite dining meets vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.

Recovery Room Tavern

Recovery Room Tavern: A local favorite bar and restaurant in Charleston, offering delicious food, craft drinks, and a lively atmosphere for all.

The Gin Joint

Discover The Gin Joint in Charleston's historic French Quarter, where artisanal cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await every visitor.

Doar Bros.

Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of Charleston at Doar Bros. - where expertly crafted drinks meet delicious small plates.

Little Palm

Discover the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere of Little Palm, a must-visit bar and restaurant in the heart of Charleston, SC.

Bar Vauté

Discover the vibrant allure of Bar Vauté, a French lounge in Charleston offering exquisite wines and delightful dishes for an unforgettable experience.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to South of Broad

Discover South of Broad with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHey y'all
  [Hey yawl]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [See yuh lay-tuh]
- YesYessir
  [Yessuh]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Please/You're welcome]
- Thank youThank ya
  [Thank yuh]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [Pahrdun me]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [How yawl doin']
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And you?]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [Y'all speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't reckon
  [I don't reckon]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [I'd like to see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I would like to pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Git gone!
  [Git gone!]
- Call the Police!Call the Po-lice!
  [Call the Po-lice!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [Call a doc!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [I'm feelin' poorly]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [I'd like to buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just lookin']
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much is it?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [That's too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can y'all lower the price?
  [Can yawl lower the price?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYestidy
  [Yestidy]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorra
  [Tomorra]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can y'all show me (on the map)?
  [Can yawl show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of South of Broad

The South of Broad neighborhood in Charleston is one of the oldest parts of the city, with its origins tracing back to the late 17th century when Charleston was established. The area became a prominent residential district for wealthy planters and merchants, showcasing the prosperity generated by the rice and indigo trade. Many of the grand homes built during this time, such as the Nathaniel Russell House and the Aiken-Rhett House, reflect the architectural styles and social status of their original owners.
During the Civil War, Charleston played a pivotal role, and the South of Broad neighborhood was not spared from the conflict's impacts. The neighborhood was close to Fort Sumter, the site of the war's first shots. After the war, the area saw significant changes as it adapted to the new social and economic realities of Reconstruction. Many families who had previously enjoyed wealth were faced with the consequences of a devastated economy and the abolition of slavery.
The 20th century marked a turning point for the South of Broad neighborhood, as preservation efforts began to gain momentum. In the 1920s, the Charleston Renaissance movement sought to protect the city's historic architecture and cultural heritage. This movement was crucial in saving many of the antebellum homes in South of Broad from demolition and neglect, ensuring that the neighborhood retained its historic character.
The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s also had a profound impact on Charleston, including the South of Broad area. As a center of social change, the neighborhood witnessed protests and meetings aimed at ending segregation and promoting equal rights. This period not only transformed the social landscape of Charleston but also influenced its cultural narrative, leading to ongoing discussions about race and history in the region.
In recent decades, South of Broad has experienced significant gentrification, with an influx of tourism and new residents drawn to its charm and historical significance. The area has become a popular destination for visitors seeking to explore Charleston's rich history, picturesque streets, and stunning waterfront views. However, this growth has also raised concerns about preserving the neighborhood's unique character amid increasing commercialization and real estate development.

South of Broad Essentials

South of Broad is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Charleston. If you're arriving by air, the Charleston International Airport is approximately 12 miles away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rideshare service directly to South of Broad, which typically takes 20-30 minutes. If you're coming from the Historic District, it's a short 10-15 minute walk or a quick bike ride across the iconic Battery. Public transportation options like the DASH trolley can also connect you to South of Broad from the downtown area.
South of Broad is best explored on foot, as many attractions are within easy walking distance. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport; bike rentals are available throughout Charleston. There are limited public transport options within South of Broad, but the DASH trolley service provides a convenient way to navigate the downtown area. Taxis and rideshares are readily available for longer trips or if you're tired after a day of exploring.
South of Broad is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, but it's wise to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night on less populated streets and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas. While crime rates are relatively low, tourists should be cautious in the surrounding areas of King Street and East Bay Street, where petty crimes can occur. Always stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is MUSC Health, located a short drive from South of Broad. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do embrace the Southern charm with lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the coastal climate. Don't wear overly casual attire when dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect the local customs, particularly when visiting historic churches. Always dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't engage in loud conversations or phone calls. Greetings: Do offer a friendly smile and a 'hello' to locals. A handshake is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and enjoy drinks in outdoor settings. Don't bring outside food or beverages into restaurants.
To experience South of Broad like a local, stroll through the area’s historic streets and take time to appreciate the architecture and gardens. Visit local markets for fresh produce and artisan goods. Engage with shopkeepers and locals, as they're often eager to share stories about Charleston's rich history. Don't miss the chance to relax at Waterfront Park, where you can enjoy views of the harbor and the iconic Pineapple Fountain.

South of Broad: Charleston's Historic Gem

Local tips in South of Broad